Join our Volunteer Team
Be the Reason Wildlife Gets a Second Chance.
Our volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do. Every rescued animal, every successful release, every moment of hope is made possible by people who choose to give their time, care, and compassion.
From hands-on wildlife care and rehabilitation, to welcoming the public, supporting hospital operations, transporting animals in need, and helping at community events — volunteers play a vital role across every part of our organisation.
Whether you’re cleaning enclosures, preparing specialised diets, answering phones, driving injured animals to safety, or lending a hand at fundraisers, your contribution has a direct and lasting impact on the recovery of sick, injured, and orphaned native wildlife. Quite simply, we couldn’t do this work without you.
If you’re passionate about wildlife, eager to learn, and looking for a meaningful way to make a real difference, we’d love to welcome you into our volunteer community.
Join us — and help give Australia’s wildlife the second chance they deserve.
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Maintenance Volunteers
Help maintain a safe, clean, and organised hospital environment. This role is perfect for those who enjoy practical tasks and want to ensure the highest standards of care and comfort for our wildlife patients and team.
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Hospital Assistant Volunteers
Support the care and rehabilitation of native wildlife. Duties include preparing food, cleaning enclosures, and assisting veterinary staff with the animals’ recovery journey. We offer both rostered and flexible opportunities.
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Reception Volunteers
Be the friendly face (and voice) that welcomes visitors and supports the daily operations of the hospital. Reception volunteers greet guests, answer phone calls, and assist with light administrative tasks that help keep everything running smoothly.
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Driving Volunteers
Provide vital transport for injured or orphaned wildlife from local vet clinics to our hospital, and assist with moving supplies or equipment as needed. A current driver’s licence and a calm, reliable nature are essential.
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Community Event Volunteers
Represent Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital in the community! You'll attend local markets to share our mission, hand out information, and chat with the public about how they can support wildlife conservation efforts.
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Raptor Centre
Support the specialised care of birds of prey, including owls, hawks, and eagles. Volunteers assist with cleaning, feeding, observing behaviours, and maintaining enclosures, helping our raptor patients heal in a calm and respectful setting.
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Driver & Truck Maintenance Volunteers
Are you an experienced truck driver with an HC licence and a passion for helping wildlife? Help maintain Matilda, our mobile wildlife hospital. You’ll assist with transporting the vehicle to outreach locations and events, support basic upkeep, and help extend our lifesaving work across the region.
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Organisational Support Volunteers
Help us spread the word and raise vital funds! These behind-the-scenes roles support our outreach, promotions, and fundraising activities, and are ideal for creative or admin-savvy volunteers who want to make a meaningful difference for wildlife.
Meet Alex, one of our amazing hospital volunteers!
Why Volunteer With Us?
Volunteering with Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital is more than lending a hand — it’s becoming part of a compassionate, purpose-driven community working together to protect and heal Australia’s precious wildlife. Whether you’re helping in the hospital, representing us at local markets, or supporting behind the scenes, every role truly matters.
Be Part of a Supportive Community
From day one, you’ll be welcomed into a team of friendly, like-minded people who share your passion for wildlife and conservation. We value every volunteer’s contribution and are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
Structured Onboarding & Training
We want you to feel confident, capable, and supported from the very beginning. Here’s what you can expect:
Apply Online
Submit a short application through our website.Face-to-Face Interview
Meet with our team to discuss your interests, skills, and available volunteer roles.Orientation & On-Site Training
Attend an orientation session with our Volunteer Manager, followed by hands-on training alongside an experienced volunteer.Clear Role Descriptions
Receive a detailed overview of your role, responsibilities, and expectations.Empowered to Succeed
We believe in setting you up for success, with guidance, encouragement, and the resources you need to feel confident in your role.
Ongoing Learning & Development
Volunteering with us is also a chance to grow:
Continued Skill Building
Access ongoing learning opportunities in wildlife care, teamwork, conservation, and community engagement as you gain experience.
Volunteer #ForTheWildlife
1. You’re Passionate About Wildlife
If you care deeply about the wellbeing of native animals, you’re in the right place. Wildlife welfare is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re always looking for kind, capable people who share that passion.
2. You’re Ready to Help
You bring time, energy, and a willingness to contribute your skills. Whether you can volunteer regularly or just occasionally, your support helps deliver life-saving care to animals in need.
3. Let’s Get Started
Ready to make a difference? Hit the APPLY NOW button and complete our short online application form, sharing your interests, availability, and any skills you’d like to offer. Our team will be in touch to match you with a volunteer role that suits you best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Volunteer FAQs
Do I need experience to volunteer?
No prior experience is required for most roles. We provide training and ongoing support to help you get started. All you need is a love of wildlife and a willingness to learn.
What kind of commitment is expected?
We offer both regular, rostered roles and flexible, on-call opportunities. Some volunteers come in weekly, while others help at events or when needed. We do ask for a minimum commitment of six months to ensure consistency for our animals and team — how often you volunteer within that time is up to you.
Is there a minimum age to volunteer?
Yes. Volunteers must be 18 years or older. For younger people interested in helping, we offer occasional school or community engagement opportunities — feel free to get in touch to learn more.
What volunteer roles are available?
Our volunteer roles include hospital care, reception, maintenance, wildlife transport, farmers markets, and raptor centre support. You can read more about each role above.
Can I volunteer with a friend or partner?
Absolutely! Just mention this in your application and we’ll do our best to place you together where suitable roles are available.
Is training provided?
Yes. All volunteers receive an induction and role-specific, on-the-job training. We also offer ongoing learning opportunities to help you build skills and confidence.
What should I wear or bring?
Please wear enclosed shoes and comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. We provide a Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital volunteer T-shirt.
I have more questions — who can I contact?
Email our Volunteer Manager, Annette, at
📧 annette@byronbaywildlifehospital.org
How do I sign up?
Simply hit the APPLY NOW button below to get started!
